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It’s been a while since my last post, and I couldn’t be more excited to get back into the swing of things! The products I’ve discovered these past few months are some of my all-time favourites, and I hope you’ll love them, too!

I discovered MantraBand during a trip to the USA this past summer. Being someone who loves motivational quotes, I was immediately intrigued by these bracelets, which are sleek and simple in design (available in silver, rose gold, or yellow gold), and adorn various fun, inspirational messages. In particular, I was drawn to the saying, “Smile, Breath, and Go Slowly“. The MantraBand website describes this bracelet as a reminder to, “Remember to focus on one thing at a time and give it your all. Stay calm, look on the bright side, and keep going. Because it’s all about the journey, not the destination.” I, like many others, often times find myself rushing to get things done, and I can easily forget to slow down and enjoy the process. Naturally, I’m now hooked on these bracelets and have a handful of others on my wishlist: “Hakuna Matata“, “Ohana“, and “Que Sera Sera“, just to name a few!

I’ve waited a long time for an affordable shampoo and conditioner that were specially formulated for oily roots, and guess what? It’s finally arrived! L’Oreal’s Extraordinary Clay line is perfect for those who have hair the equivalent to “combination skin”: an oily scalp, with ends that could use some love. These products use the power of various clays (white, blue, and green) to cleanse, moisturize, and revitalize the hair and scalp, leaving hair balanced for up to 72 hours! The shampoo lathers beautifully and leaves your hair and scalp feeling clean and refreshed, and the conditioner is super moisturizing and lightweight. Oh, and both products smell amazing. Using the shampoo and conditioner, I noticed a difference in my hair within just two uses. Next on my list to try is the Pre-Shampoo Clay Mask.

I’d always heard great things about Benefit Cosmetic’s boxed blushes, but had never actually purchased or tried one for myself. I decided it was time to hop on the bandwagon, and chose the shade “Dallas” (described as a rosy-bronze hue). Trust me, the shade you see in the box does not do this product justice. Once applied, it wears as a gorgeous, warm bronze that gives you a healthy glow, and is perfect for Fall. You can even use it as a bronzer, or to contour, and it suits nearly every skin tone.

I’m someone who’s lucky enough to have long lashes naturally, but if I don’t use the right mascara, they just fall flat and can end up looking sparse. I’m therefore always on the lookout for affordable options that give volume and hold curl. I received this particular mascara in a gift bag from a Quo event, and was hooked after trying it just once. The formula is glossy and super pigmented, the curved silicone brush adds curl, and it apples clump-free and lasts all day. This mascara easily compares to high-end versions, and is just a fraction of the price. Definitely recommend!

This is a perfume that has been on my wishlist for a long time, but due to it’s higher-than-average price tag, I always hesitated. When Shoppers Drug Mart hosted their recent redeem your points event, I decided to finally take the plunge. First off, this product is an Eau de Parfum, meaning a little bit goes a long way (making it a good value for money). It comes in a gorgeous glass bottle with gold accents, and the signature Michael Kors logo. The scent itself has notes of warm amber, sandalwood, and white flowers. It’s warm and musky but still feminine, and it’s perfect for the colder months ahead.

Surprise! Another warm, musky scent that I can’t get enough of. Until it was recently discontinued, Bath and Body Works’ “Twilight Woods” was always one of my favourites. However their new scent, “Golden Pear & Brown Sugar” has now replaced it as my number one. It has notes of almond creme, Bartlett pear, brown sugar, toasted hazelnut, silken vanilla, and decadent pistachio mousse (hungry yet?). It’s a pretty, sexy scent, but is also subtle and not overpowering. I pair the shower gel in the same scent with the Ultra Shea Body Cream for an extra scent boost. Note to self: stock up on this before it’s gone!

There are many great things about Winter (personally, I can’t name any but Christmas), but with it tends to come dry and dull skin, frizzy hair, and hands you want to hide in your gloves. My January favourites happen to be products that help with all of these problems (plus a little glitz). Let’s get to it!

I received a sample of this primer a few months ago, and didn’t start using it until recently. With all the acne products I’ve been using, there have been days where my skin just needs some serious moisture (dry skin + makeup = not fun). It applies more like a moisturizer, with a yummy, coconut scent. As someone who has very oily skin, I typically go for a primer that will mattify. But what I love about this primer is that it gives you a soft, dewy finish without the oil and shine. It absorbed quickly on my skin and makeup applied easily over top. This primer is silicone free (a common allergen), cruelty-free, and vegan friendly.

While I typically tend to choose a moisturizer more based on scent than anything, this Winter I’ve been more focused on finding a high-quality product that soothes dryness and lasts all day long. This moisturizer by Jergens does just that. It’s got a soft, clean scent, a rich and luxurious consistency, and applies evenly. I wasn’t sure it would live up to its claim of leaving skin more radiant, but it honestly does. It leaves my skin with a dewy sheen, but dries quickly.

This brush is as fun to use as it looks. On wet or dry hair, the soft, flexible bristles gently fight tangles while fitting perfectly into your hand (thanks to its ergonomic shape). You can even bring it with you in the shower to comb through your conditioner or hair mask. Because it requires less pulling or tugging than a normal hairbrush, you’ll notice less breakage and increased shine. Even better? It comes in a variety of colour combinations. Which one will you choose?

I promised glitz, didn’t I? I received these earrings in my gift bag at the Spark Sessions blogger conference late last year, and have worn them countless time since. I love that they have a vintage-inspired look, and that they dress up nearly any outfit. I’ve paired mine with sweaters, dresses, even a leather jacket…I just can’t get enough!

This hand cream smells good enough to eat (even my boyfriend asked “what is that?”). But aside from it smelling amazing, it’s also seriously effective, leaving my hands soft and easing any itchiness or dryness (I love applying this at night before bed). You can purchase this cream in-store at Blossom Lounge in Toronto’s Distillery District (or online), and can choose from a variety of (adorably named) scents including “Fluffy Bunny” and “Front Porch Punch”. The compact 2.4 oz size means you can keep one in your purse, your car, your bedside, and beyond!

What have you been loving for the month of January? Let me know in the comments below!

With the colder temperatures (and the mistletoe), a great lip balm is a must. Today’s gift, Henné Organics Luxury Organic Lip Balm, is not only an amazing(trust me!)lip product, it can also be used for hands, elbows, heels, and more! Made with coconut oil, shea butter, avocado oil, and beeswax, it’s certified organic and contains 99% organic ingredients. It’s long lasting, non-greasy, and feels light-weight on your lips or skin. This product is a luxe gift that anyone will enjoy, and because it’s colourless, it’s great for men, too! You can purchase this product online (free shipping on orders $75+) or in-store at Blossom Lounge in Toronto’s Distillery District.